The Super Eagles of Nigeria arrived in Bissau on Sunday, September 28, 2026, ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau. This follows their 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar in Uyo, where debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scored crucial goals. The team had a closed training session at 10 am on Sunday before departing for the airport at 2 pm for their 3 pm flight to Bissau.
The Super Eagles' victory over Madagascar was marked by a strong defensive approach from the opposing team, which goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali helped to overcome with a crucial second-half save. Nigeria fell behind to Ehsan Kari's 16th-minute goal but made a comeback in either half to secure all three points for coach Eric Chelle's side. This win puts Nigeria in a good position in Group L, alongside Guinea-Bissau, who also won their opening fixture.
Guinea-Bissau began their campaign with a 2-0 win over co-hosts Tanzania, taking the top spot in Group L on goal difference. Both Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau are now seeking a second consecutive victory to strengthen their position early in the qualifying race. The two teams have a history of competition, having met in the qualifiers for the 2023 AFCON, with each recording a victory away from home.
The Super Eagles will face Guinea-Bissau at the Estádio 24 de Setembro on Tuesday, with the match kicking off at 5 pm Nigerian time. Coach Chelle is set to have a training session in Bissau on Monday to prepare his players for the encounter. The team's performance will be crucial in determining their chances of automatic qualification from the group, as only one team will secure a spot, with Tanzania already assured of a place due to their hosting rights.
In the other Group L fixture on Tuesday, Tanzania will face Madagascar, who are looking to bounce back from their loss to Nigeria. The outcome of these matches will significantly impact the group's standings and the teams' prospects for the 2027 AFCON. Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau have previously clashed in the qualifiers, with the Djurtus winning 1-0 in Abuja and the Eagles responding with a 1-0 victory in Bissau.
The 2027 AFCON qualifiers are heating up, with various teams competing for a spot in the tournament. As one of the top teams in Group L, Nigeria's Super Eagles are focused on securing a win against Guinea-Bissau to maintain their position. The team's coach, Eric Chelle, will be working closely with his players to ensure they are well-prepared for the challenge ahead.
Abiodun Adewale reports on sports for PUNCH, covering various tiers of the Nigerian football league, national teams, and cricket. His experience over the last six years has equipped him with in-depth knowledge of Nigerian football, making him a reliable source for sports news. The Super Eagles' performance in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Key points
- The Super Eagles of Nigeria have arrived in Bissau for their 2027 AFCON qualifier against Guinea-Bissau.
- Nigeria began their campaign with a 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar, with debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scoring crucial goals.
- The match against Guinea-Bissau will take place at the Estádio 24 de Setembro on Tuesday, with both teams seeking a second consecutive victory in Group L.
